Modernization of the New Home For the Aging-In-Place Buyer

According to recent surveys of remodelers by the [tag]National Association of Home Builders[/tag] (NAHB), the [tag]aging population[/tag] will significantly influence the [tag]remodeling[/tag] industry over the next five years. However, most older Americans have not prepared their homes for life’s inevitable changes. Though the vast majority of older Americans want to “age-in-place,” many of these [tag]homeowners[/tag] will require special modifications in order to live safely and independently. Many who remodel for accessibility only do so after their home becomes too difficult to navigate.

Technology is also important to boomer home buyers. They want to be online and high-tech, with media-rich capabilities. In many active adult rental communities, “[tag]tech centers[/tag]” are now called [tag]business centers[/tag], reflecting the extended employment years of today’s active adults. “An influx of builders into the market has pushed active adult developments to step up their amenities as competition is keen for the active adult dollar,” said Symposium speaker, Jim Daniel, vice president of sales for Robson Communities’ PebbleCreek Resort Community in Buckeye (AZ). “Amenities like golf and tennis used to be enough, but now amenities have to be about technology and learning.”